This inventor holds 3 USPTO granted patents, plus 1 CIPO patent and 3 EPO patents. Top assignee: Umicore. Active years: 2023-2024.
Location History:
- Westerlo, BE (2023)
- Olen, BE (2024)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2023-2024
Title: Thomas Suetens: Innovator in Cobalt Recycling
Introduction
Thomas Suetens is a notable inventor based in Westerlo, Belgium. He has made significant contributions to the field of recycling, particularly in the recovery of cobalt from various materials. With a total of 3 patents to his name, Suetens is recognized for his innovative approaches to metal recovery.
Latest Patents
One of Suetens' latest patents is a process for recycling cobalt-bearing materials. This invention focuses on the recovery of cobalt from lithium-ion secondary batteries, which are often discarded after use. The process involves charging cobalt-bearing materials into a converter furnace, where they are smelted under oxidizing conditions. This method allows for the efficient separation of cobalt from other elements, making it particularly suitable for recycling efforts.
Another significant patent by Suetens is a process for the recovery of metals from cobalt-bearing materials. This process targets metal-bearing materials that contain a high percentage of cobalt and nickel. By smelting these materials in a bath furnace, Suetens' method ensures the quantitative recovery of cobalt in an alloy phase, while also collecting magnesium into a slag. This innovative approach not only enhances metal recovery but also contributes to sustainable practices in the industry.
Career Highlights
Thomas Suetens is currently employed at Umicore, a company known for its commitment to sustainable resource management and recycling. His work at Umicore has allowed him to focus on developing processes that improve the efficiency of metal recovery, particularly cobalt. Suetens' contributions have positioned him as a key player in the field of recycling technologies.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Suetens has collaborated with several professionals in the industry, including David Van Horebeek and Isabel Vermeulen. These collaborations have fostered an environment of innovation and have led to the development of advanced recycling processes.
Conclusion
In summary, Thomas Suetens is a pioneering inventor whose work in cobalt recycling has made a significant impact on sustainable practices in the metal recovery industry. His innovative patents and contributions at Umicore highlight the importance of recycling in today's world.